“A staycation (also spelled stay-cation, stacation, or staykation) is a neologism for a period of time in which an individual or family stays at home and relaxes at home or takes day trips from their home to area attractions”, according to our friends at Wikipedia, the online free encyclopedia. They also state “Staycations have achieved high popularity in the US during the financial crisis of 2007–2010 in which unemployment levels and gas prices were high. Staycations also became a popular phenomenon in the UK in 2009 as a weak pound made overseas holidays significantly more expensive. The term was added to the 2009 version of the Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary.”

Personally, I think we mastered the art of a good staycation, right here, in town, looong ago. The abundance of history, art, tradition and style that has defined Saratoga in the summertime since way before my time is in its full-fledged glory. I truly believe the phrase “Christmas in July” originated here…the people, the stores…everything just takes on a “mood” same way the holidays do. Its palatable.

Between Congress Park, the Track, the Peerless Pool, galleries, boutiques and museums…all within walking distance…there’s really not much of a reason to venture too far from home to have a little fun, is there?

So, while the economy trudges along and uncertainty looms around us, I do hope we can all share in the little things and the neighborly moments that make our little corner of the world so pleasurable. Shop local and stay home! It’s really not so bad.

See you in September,
Angela McFarland
Publisher

Are you known for anything special? Yes! We have unique, high-end, interesting merchandise, fabulous displays and terrific prices. Our selection is extraordinary and we offer a welcoming upbeat atmosphere. Our volunteer staff is the heart of our operation and if you just ask us for something in particular, we might just have what you are looking for!

What do you like most about this business? Getting to know the wonderful customers, donors and consignors and watching customers get excited from their unique purchase. Our main focus is to continually support Saratoga Hospital and the community so the circle of giving speaks for its’ self.

We really do get an awesome variety of merchandise and it truly creates a fabulous shopping experience…that’s a lot of fun!
What is your biggest challenge? Keeping up and maintaining a smooth flow to present new and exciting merchandise everyday. We’re busy and always want to make sure our merchandise is different and fresh.

What do you want the community to know about you? Our merchandise totally ROCKS! We accept donations any day we are open ’til 5pm and our hours of operation are Tues – Sat 11am-6pm.

Anything Else? Stop by and “Treasure Hunt” at Treasures. Where else can you get a fabulous find and donate your things all in one stop? We say “If you can’t find it at Treasures, you don’t need it!”

Becoming a mom to a young boy, an almost mom to four others, an aunt to two nephews and remaining the ever devoted big sister to my kid brother (now in his 30’s) has given me a whole new appreciation of the phrase “boys to men”. I’ve seen my dad’s health fail, my aging father-in-law embrace a new caretaker role and a favorite uncle face challenges, yet maintain a goal of character and duty when many would have thrown in the towel.

Its almost like watching a science experiment develop, watching from the sidelines, how each man in my life has evolved and continues to change into the expected strong, sensitive, fearless leader type without any type of instruction manual or guide.

Yet, despite the outer shells…..I still see a boy in each and every one of them in the sort of reliable, secure and consistent way that I think men have a way of just being. They don’t seem to mind a little dirt under their nails, melt a little when the youngest says something unexpected, stand a little taller when they are in the lead position – for ANYTHING — and between each other, find things seriously funny when the ladies are left scratching their heads.

I’m slowly discovering that the boys, especially my wild child youngest nephew, has a way of helping each male figure become a better man, too. I smirk a little watching my husband feign an interest in cub scouts and out-of-the-blue, random conversations, become something a little better than he was. I’d like to think most men have followed the same course in life.

A very happy Father’s Day to all of the men in our lives, here and far, past and present. The rules have changed for you, I know, however, I hope you are recognized and appreciated, in a special way, that defines what makes a good father, by those whose lives you have touched as a Dad or father-figure.

Warm Regards,
Angela McFarland
Publisher

The corporation was in negotiations with the previous owner to acquire the facility that did not result in a deal. When it ended, Rich and Frank kept negotiations moving forward independently. Parillo and Sheldon took over operations in May of 2008 and have been planning this project since before that date.

Q: Are you known for anything special? Lots of things, as we have recently finished a complete makeover. The bowling center is now a family entertainment center offering bowling, Ballocity (softball play area), bumper cars, a huge redemption arcade and the “End Zone” sports pub and restaurant.

The renovation started last October and will complete with a grand opening June 11-13. Prior to the renovation, if you were not a bowler, you probably would have visited the center, but now you will have the time of your life without even touching a bowling ball.

This is the place for an all-inclusive children’s birthday party. There are also lanes available daily with special pricing.

The End Zone sports pub offers specials Sunday through Wednesday, including Kids Eat FREE on Wednesday. You really have to see this place to believe it!!!

Q: What do you like most about your business?Bowling really is for everyone: kids to seniors! It is social and competitive and we are proud to claim “we sell fun!”.

Its also incredibly rewarding to be LIVIN’ THE DREAM having set and achieving the goal of family fun center ownership.

Q: What do you feel is your biggest challenge?Changing the perception of what people think of when they hear bowling. The sport and our place has truly become a family destination.

Q: What do you want the community to know about you?We are thrilled to be part of such a wonderful community and invite everyone to our open house! Bowl for FREE, register to win prizes and enjoy other extras such as live music and balloon art.

Owner Name: Frank Parillo and Richard Sheldon
Business Name: Saratoga Strike Zone
Address: 32 Ballston Ave. Saratoga Springs, NY.
Phone: 518-584-6460
Website: www.saratogastrikezone.com

Okay, I’m being a little silly. I’m just so pleased to be able to draw comparisons between all the diverse and interesting things the month of May has to offer with the fresh features and business partners in this month’s edition.

Taking center stage is the 2nd Annual “I Love My Mom” Contest brought to you by Our Towne and the dynamic neighborhood merchants who have generously donated fabulous gifts and treasures for one lucky winner. Nominations are welcome from the young or the young-at-heart, short or long, telling us why YOUR mom deserves to be this year’s winner. To make the entry process fast and easy, we will take email, a note on our Facebook page, even a faxed submission….

Last year’s contest entries were a hoot! We truly look forward to bolder and brighter submissions this year but you have to act fast! The winner will be chosen and notified on Mother’s Day by noon. Cost of an entry: zero dollars, having the special lady in your life chosen because of your entry: priceless.

Finally, we appreciate the interest and thoughtful feedback we’ve been getting in the past few months and encourage your continued communications. Our goal is to serve your neighborhood, the people and businesses that live and work here all year round, and are pleased to find ways to make the time you spend with us light, fun and informative.

Warm regards,
Angela McFarland
Publisher

My formal education is in Occupational Therapy, however I am a very passionate organic gardener and always wanted my own business. It was a dream of mine until I was prompted into action one day walking my children in a wagon around the block. I noticed that the DPW had spray painted above each storm drain “Discharges to Stream”, which is the Kayderosseras Creek, and right next to the drains were the little yellow signs put by chemical lawn care companies. It was a light bulb moment so to speak for me. The following spring I launched Green Conscience Organic Lawn Care. For the next four years that followed, I truly enjoyed working with people on caring for their land and making a difference in the way they approached landscaping.

I expanded to Green Conscience Home & Garden because I saw a greater need for products that would create not only a non-toxic landscape but also a non-toxic interior. By having the retail store I can offer the whole spectrum of goods and services, as well as have a platform for the education that is the necessary first step in many cases. Throughout my career, either as an occupational therapist, lawn care operator, or store owner, my passion is educating and inspiring people to make better choices for themselves and the environment.

Are you known for anything special?
We are a one stop shop for people who are interested in a lifestyle of health and sustainability. We carry non toxic, zero VOC paint, plaster, flooring, counter tops, beds and mattresses, organic fertilizers and soil amendments, energy saving products like low flow showerheads, tank-less water heaters and insulation. We also carry unique gift items from local artisans.

What do you like most about your business?
When I am able to help someone with a problem, providing not only a solution to their problem, but piece of mind that comes from making the right choice. I also love when I offer ideas that they never considered and they have a light bulb moment of their own!

What is your biggest challenge?
I feel my biggest challenge is overcoming the myths associated with green building supplies. Often people have preconceived notions that they have to sacrifice performance when they purchase something that is green or pay a “green” premium. While some items are more expensive, most products or categories have a range of prices that fit most people’s budget.

What else do you want the community to know about?
These eco-friendly products will help create healthier environments for ourselves and our children that will sustain well being. Most standard building and interior materials contribute to chronic conditions such as allergies and asthma, and their outgasing can make us sick. On a larger scale, the use of such products will promote sustainable behavior that will better conserve the planets resources. We are committed to educating people about healthy and sustainable lifestyles so we have one or more presentations at the store each month. People can sign up for my newsletter or follow us on our facebook page to keep up to date on our events and new product offerings.

Renewal is typical in the month of April and its at this time that I’d like to hear from you, our readers about how we can best serve the neighborhood. Over the next few months, you’ll see us reaching more into your backyards, improving our web presence, tweaking our print product and engaging with the service organizations that dutifully volunteer their time and services.

We have now reached a 1-year mark, in a difficult economic climate, and it is with great appreciation to long-standing supporters such as the Fortunate Cup, Dehn’s Florist, Jitters Cafe, Live Well and Mary Ann Fitzgerald, City Historian who have remained a supportive constant presence while we figure out our best niche in the community. It is with special thanks and praise to Allerdice Hardware whose behind the scenes person initiated the encouragement and expansion of the Our Towne brand into Saratoga.

A special welcome to folks such as Marj Mendez, Tark’s Indoor Golf and Treasures Consignments who have joined us this month and have shown faith in our efforts to serve the folks that work, live and play in Saratoga year round.

Most of all thanks to YOU, for the notes, emails and phone calls….we appreciate those most of all and ask that you keep ‘em comin’!

Warm Regards,
Angela McFarland
Publisher

Are you known for anything special?
We are dedicated to offering our clients the most sophisticated and technologically advanced golf instruction techniques available anywhere in the world. Our innovative technology allows clients to experience the instantaneous feedback necessary to shorten their learning curve and accelerate the learning process in a manner which is pleasant, rewarding and proven effective.

What do you like most about your business?
Increasing a person’s enjoyment of a game they love to play is most rewarding. One of the major reason golfers leave the game is that they get frustrated because they can’t get better. Playing better makes the game more fun, which makes people play more golf. More golfers playing golf means the game, and my business, will grow. It’s a self fulfilling prophecy – the better I am at helping people improve the more success I will have. I also like the fact that our facility is so multi-faceted. When I’m not teaching then I’m most likely fitting golfers for clubs, conducting golf fitness screens, building or repairing clubs, or at times even pouring drinks behind the bar.

What do you feel is your biggest challenge with your business?
Convincing people that “Indoor Golf” is real. When you play indoors you use real clubs and balls. You can play rounds or just practice your game on the range. The emphasis on making good course management decisions and executing good shots is still there. In the past “golf simulators” were not very accurate but that has all changed. Our PGA Tour Simulators are the first simulators ever indorsed by the PGA Tour and the ball flight data is the most accurate in the industry. Golf simulation technology has certainly come a long way in a short time and will continue to get better and better very quickly.

What do you want the community to know about you?
That we are committed to providing golfers of all abilities a fun and comfortable setting in which to learn, practice and play the game of golf. Our goal is to simply make the game more fun and provide year-round access to this wonderful game of a lifetime! Tark’s is also a great place for corporate events, fundraisers, parties and team building activities.

Anything else?
Our customers say we have the best burgers in Saratoga. Our new wing sauce is fabulous as well! Come give us a try!

For example, as a long time Saratoga County resident and , I had no idea that Susan B. Anthony was a resident of a neighboring county AND that her distant cousin, Sarah Anthony Burtis, was the very first woman to work in a retail establishment in the City of Saratoga Springs. As I poked around some more seeking notable women of history, I took the time to learn more about who Katrina Trask was and her powerful influence on the haven and popular tourist attraction of Yaddo Gardens.

Fast forward to the present, it was that few minutes with Terri, a softer spoken but powerful personality, that opened my eyes to the women in Saratoga making history and shaping the course of Saratoga Springs today. Our Chamber of Commerce, our Economic Development figure heads, our specialty retail store and boutique owners: dynamic women. Creative, passionate and progressive….its very exciting when you look at what is happening behind the scenes.

As career women and moms, we are busy than ever, managing more than anyone ever thought possible, facing struggles that our great-grandmothers would never have dreamed of yet day in and day out, it has been my honor to meet and work along side women who embrace the neighborhood we call home and possess the determination and power of Susan Anthony Burtis and Katrina Trask. It is with hope that I should have the privilege of looking up Women’s History, in 25 years, and see records and memories of the women I’ve come to know in this neighborhood over the past year.

Angela McFarland
Owner and Publisher

Free Yourself Concepts is a full service Administrative and Organizational services company. Inspiration came from talking to friends, many of whom are solo entrepreneurs and consultants. They all complained that they spent so much time doing administrative and organizational work they didn’t have time to actually do their business. Seeing a need and an easy solution, therefore Free Yourself Concepts was formed. Giving you the Freedom to Focus on What You Do Best!

Q. Are you known for anything special?

My willingness to help, and efficiency

Q. What do you like most about your business?

I love what I do. Just to help small business owners be able to have the freedom to concentrate and grow their business is such a great feeling. My Client’s just know that they can pass off any task to me and know that it will be accomplished in a efficient timely manner. Its great to leave a client’s office and know that you have helped them with tasks that they feel are taking up their time when they could be focusing on developing their business.

Q. What do you feel is your biggest challenge with your business?

Trying to appeal to the “do it yourself” entrepreneurs. They are not used to asking for help and some people have a hard time with that. Therefore by time some people contact me they are beyond stressed out and overwhelmed.

Q. What do you want the community to know about you?

I try to support the local economy as much as possible. When I started Free Yourself Concepts last year I realized how hard small business owners work and I have a new found appreciation for their work and products.

Q. Anything Else?

I am constantly volunteering in my spare time. I am a Committee Chair for Rebuilding Together Saratoga County and I work with H.O.P.E. on various projects.

Ali R. Anechiarico
Free Yourself Concepts
73 Trottingham Road
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
518-538-5941
www.freeyourselfconcepts.com
info@freeyourselfconcepts.com